Descartian

Hi Sensuki, First off, thanks for a great guide With no rogues available as companions, I am thinking of maybe creating one as my main character, to open chests, disarm traps, etc. Do you think it necessary, or can I just develop another character's stealth and mechanics skills for this? Also, custom characters created at the Stronghold, will one be able to use them in party or only at the Stronghold?